Faculty and Staff,
This Saturday is Family Day on campus. Activities welcome families of our students to Natchitoches and Northwestern for a fun, entertaining visit on a home football weekend. Let’s maximize this opportunity to showcase our university and our hospitality since Family Day is a catalyst for student retention and recruitment.
As we continue to navigate the academic year, I want to share several updates that reflect both the achievements and resilience of our university community.
Nursing success at the Nightingale Gala
We are proud to announce that Northwestern had an outstanding showing at the annual Nightingale Gala hosted by the Louisiana State Nurses Association (LSNA). Several of our nursing faculty and alumni were recognized for their excellence:
- Megan Downey, NSU BSN 2023 alumnus, received the Rookie of the Year Award.
- Dr. Shaun Wheat from the Natchitoches campus was awarded Educator of the Year. This is NSU’s 2nd consecutive year winning (Susan Steele-Moses won last year).
- Dr. Aimee Badeaux, Interim Dean and Nurse Anesthesia Program Coordinator was named School of Nursing Administrator of the Year.
- NSU’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program won Nursing School of the Year for the Graduate Degree Program.
We are incredibly proud of our nursing faculty and alumni for continuing to demonstrate the excellence and leadership that define NSU’s programs.
Curriculum enhancements related to AI
In last week’s update, I mentioned an important announcement regarding our partnership with IBM and artificial intelligence instruction. An official news release will go out tomorrow. I encourage you to read about this fascinating development and watch the accompanying video.
Through ongoing conversations about this exciting initiative, there is growing interest in expanding our offerings. A new course proposal, submitted by one of distinguished alumni, is being considered and could be a unique addition to our curriculum, further integrating cutting-edge technology and AI. More details to come.
Fundraising success and current initiatives
The NSU Foundation announced a record-breaking fundraising milestone last week, having secured more than $9.2M in revenue and contributions during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. This represents an increase of over $2M from the previous year and demonstrates the unwavering commitment of our alumni and supporters. Special thanks to our development staff for their outstanding efforts.
The NSU Foundation is currently seeking contributions for the annual Columns Fund giving campaign as well as two scholarship funds named for former university presidents. The first scholarship fund was established in memory of Dr. Robert Alost. Special thanks to alumni board member Gail Jones for leading this effort. The second scholarship was established in honor of Dr. Marcus Jones through the generous support of alumna Lela Mae Wilkes. These scholarships will continue the legacies of both Dr. Alost and Dr. Jones by supporting future generations of students. Please consider contributing to the NSU Foundation to support these initiatives.
Swipe Out Hunger program
Our partnership with Sodexo continues to have a positive impact. This year, Sodexo has graciously provided 2,500 free meal swipes for the 2024-25 academic year. These meal swipes will support approximately 90 students, each receiving 14 free meals from the Iberville Cafeteria during the Fall and Spring semesters. If you know a student who might benefit from this program, please encourage them to apply by visiting Swipe Out Hunger.
Hurricane Francine and Patriot Day
Considering the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff, we made the decision to close campus on Wednesday, September 11, due to the approach of Hurricane Francine. An unfortunate consequence resulted. Our planned Patriot Day recognition of the 9/11 anniversary was cancelled. However, it is important that we all reflect on the significance of 9/11 and honor the memory of those we lost, as well as the heroes who emerged during that time and the inspiring spirit of patriotism which resulted.
Campus communication
Last Monday morning, our Leadership Team held a productive meeting, discussing important initiatives and ways to improve our services for students and staff. I am grateful for their insights and dedication. That afternoon the Campus Communicators group held its inaugural meeting. This group is tasked with ensuring that everyone is informed about important happenings and achievements throughout our university.
Please reach out to Cole Gentry and his communications team with any updates from your departments to help foster effective communication across campus.
Athletics update
The NSU football team is home Saturday evening in Turpin Stadium to play Weber State, one of the more successful programs at our level (Football Championship) of NCCA Division I. Last week our Demons played their second Football Bowl Subdivision opponent in three games. These FBS games are “guarantee games” where our team collects a significant appearance fee that helps support all sports. Coach McCorkle was undaunted by the outcome and encouraged by the effort and determination of our student-athletes. I am, too.
Come enjoy tailgating at Family Day, take in another undoubtedly fantastic show from the Spirit of Northwestern marching band and our spirit groups, and let’s support our football team on its unwavering path toward long-range success that will benefit the entire university.
Congratulations to our soccer team, which took both home matches this weekend in shutouts and now has four straight wins. The Demons are home next Sunday afternoon opening the Southland Conference season against Nicholls. Volleyball went 1-1 in its most recent matches and has a 5-4 record heading into a week away from competition.
There is more good news to note, and we have many interesting campus events to enjoy. Stay engaged by visiting our www.nsula.edu website.
Your dedication and hard work are the foundation of our continued success.
Thank you for all you do for Northwestern!
Fork ‘Em Demons,
President James T. “Jimmy” Genovese
Northwestern State University